Evaluating direct and indirect measures for the functional assessment of binge eating

This study examined the usefulness of the Function of Binge Eating Scale and monitoring forms for a sample of subclinical binge eaters.

Participants included 23 college students who reported engaging in binge eating an average of two or more times per week. Participants completed the Function of Binge Eating Scale at the initial session, at 2 weeks, and at 4 weeks. Participants also monitored binge eating behavior and completed an Antecedent Checklist each time they engaged in binge eating.

Participants responded similarly to direct and indirect measures of antecedents of binge eating although they tended to rate items on the indirect measures as more intense than on the direct measures. Boredom and dissatisfaction with body weight and shape were rated as the most intense proximate antecedents while anxiety and anger at others were reported as least intense. Irritability and depressed mood were the most frequently reported temporally remote antecedents.

Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.